1. Writing Checks
Millennials may scoff at the idea of writing checks, but when it comes to paying rent or handling certain bills, they secretly appreciate the old-school method. There’s something satisfying about putting pen to paper and handing over a tangible payment instead of just clicking a button on a screen. Plus, it forces you to slow down and actually think about your finances rather than mindlessly tapping away at your banking app. It also helps that some landlords and small businesses still prefer checks, so knowing how to write one is a useful skill says Your Tango.
And let’s be honest—getting a check in the mail feels oddly rewarding, like receiving a little gift instead of just another boring direct deposit. Millennials may be digital natives, but they can’t deny the charm of a physical paycheck that they can hold before depositing. It also comes in handy when giving a wedding gift without resorting to a Venmo transfer that feels too impersonal. While they might joke about checks being outdated, they’re not about to give them up entirely.
2. Using Fabric Softener
Fabric softener seems like one of those things only Boomers care about, but plenty of Millennials secretly love how their clothes feel and smell after using it. It’s a little luxury that makes laundry feel less like a chore and more like self-care. Sure, people argue that it’s unnecessary or bad for certain fabrics, but there’s something comforting about pulling on a sweater that smells just like home. The scent alone can transport you back to childhood, when your mom folded warm towels fresh out of the dryer says BuzzFeed.
Even if they try to act like they don’t care, Millennials notice the difference when they skip it. Clothes feel stiffer, towels aren’t as fluffy, and suddenly, their laundry lacks that cozy, comforting touch says Yahoo Finance. They may opt for eco-friendly alternatives or use it sparingly, but fabric softener is still a guilty pleasure. After all, why not indulge in something that makes life just a little softer?
3. Mailing Holiday Cards
Millennials may rely on texts and social media for most communication, but they secretly love sending and receiving holiday cards. There’s a certain nostalgia in picking out a cute design, writing heartfelt messages, and dropping them in the mail. It feels more personal than a mass holiday email or a generic Facebook post. And despite all the digital options, nothing beats opening your mailbox to find a card from an old friend instead of just bills shares Business Insider.
Even those who claim they’re too busy find themselves smiling when a festive envelope shows up at their door. Many Millennials have even started their own traditions, like sending out photo cards with their pets or handwritten notes that add a personal touch. They may joke about how their parents keep every card they receive, but deep down, they get it. Some things just feel better when they’re done the old-fashioned way.
4. Calling Instead of Texting
Millennials have long been known as the generation that prefers texting over talking, but there are moments when a phone call just feels right. Sometimes, it’s easier to get all the details straight in a quick call instead of a back-and-forth text thread. And when it comes to catching up with family or close friends, hearing someone’s voice adds warmth that a text can’t provide. They might not admit it, but they appreciate that Boomers still insist on real conversations.
There’s also something undeniably nice about knowing someone took the time to actually call instead of just firing off a quick message. When they’re feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or just need a good rant, a phone call can be oddly comforting. Millennials might complain about unexpected calls, but deep down, they know they sometimes miss the days when people actually talked to each other. Even voicemail isn’t as annoying as they pretend it is when it’s from someone they care about.
5. Using Paper Maps
Sure, Google Maps is convenient, but there’s something oddly satisfying about unfolding a paper map and figuring out your own route. Boomers might have mastered the art of navigation without GPS, but Millennials secretly admire that skill. It feels empowering to be able to read a map and not rely on technology to get from point A to point B. Plus, it’s a lifesaver when your phone dies in the middle of nowhere.
Road trips also feel more adventurous when you’re plotting your journey the old-school way. There’s a certain charm in tracing a route with your finger, flipping pages to see what’s ahead, and even pulling over to double-check directions. It makes you feel more connected to the experience instead of just blindly following a robotic voice. Millennials may tease Boomers about their love of maps, but they won’t deny that having one in the glove compartment is always a good idea.
6. Using Cash
Millennials might be all about credit cards and mobile payments, but there’s something undeniably satisfying about using cash. It’s easier to keep track of spending when you can physically see the money leaving your wallet. Plus, some small businesses still prefer cash, and nothing beats the ease of splitting a bill with friends when everyone just tosses in a few dollars. There’s also that small thrill of finding a forgotten $20 bill in an old coat pocket.
Another reason Millennials secretly love cash? It’s a foolproof way to avoid unnecessary fees. No credit card interest, no overdraft charges, and no worries about fraud alerts popping up at the worst times. There’s also something about handing over a crisp bill that feels more intentional than swiping or tapping a card. While digital payments are convenient, Millennials aren’t about to give up the occasional cash-only moment.
7. Having a Landline
Most Millennials ditched their landlines years ago, but they can’t deny there’s something comforting about having one. There’s no worrying about dead batteries, spotty cell service, or unexpected dropped calls. It’s also a nostalgic throwback to simpler times, when you knew exactly where to find the phone and didn’t have to hunt for it under couch cushions.
And let’s be honest—landlines have a certain charm that cell phones just don’t. From the satisfying click of hanging up to the ability to chat without worrying about data limits, they’re a reminder of a less complicated era. Millennials may not rush to install one, but they get why their parents refuse to part with theirs. In an emergency, there’s nothing more reliable than a good old-fashioned landline.
8. Reading the Newspaper
Scrolling through news apps is convenient, but Millennials secretly love flipping through an actual newspaper. There’s something calming about holding a physical paper, turning the pages, and taking in the news without a million notifications popping up. It feels more intentional than doomscrolling through headlines on a phone.
And let’s not forget the joy of the Sunday comics, crossword puzzles, and coupons that come with it. Even if they don’t subscribe, many Millennials will grab a paper when they see one lying around. There’s a reason coffee shops still keep a few copies on hand—people actually enjoy the experience. Reading the news without distractions? That’s a trend worth holding onto.
9. Listening to AM Radio
Millennials may have their streaming services, but AM radio has a certain nostalgic charm. Whether it’s talk shows, sports broadcasts, or oldies stations, there’s something soothing about tuning in to a live radio program. It’s also nice not having to worry about Wi-Fi or buffering issues.
They might not talk about it, but plenty of Millennials still flip on the radio during long drives or while doing chores. There’s a comfort in knowing someone is talking in real time, reacting to the world as it happens. It’s a slower, more organic way of consuming entertainment—something that’s rare in the digital age. While they’ll never admit it, AM radio is still a quiet favorite.
10. Using a Real Alarm Clock
Millennials rely on their phones for just about everything, but many secretly love the reliability of a real alarm clock. There’s something refreshing about waking up without immediately seeing notifications and emails. Plus, alarm clocks don’t run out of battery or get accidentally silenced because of a random software update. It’s a simple, no-fuss way to start the day without being sucked into a digital black hole first thing in the morning.
Another bonus? No more middle-of-the-night distractions. Without a phone by the bedside, there’s no temptation to scroll through social media when you should be sleeping. And let’s not forget the nostalgia of those classic red LED numbers glowing in the dark. Millennials may act like alarm clocks are outdated, but plenty of them have one sitting on their nightstand.
11. Eating Dinner at the Table
With busy schedules and takeout culture, Millennials don’t always make time for a sit-down dinner. But when they do, they secretly love the experience. Sitting at a real table, without screens or distractions, makes meals feel more intentional. There’s something nice about actually talking to the people around you instead of just zoning out in front of the TV.
Even those who live alone find joy in setting the table, lighting a candle, and treating dinner like an event rather than just another task. It’s a small way to slow down and appreciate the moment. Millennials may tease Boomers for insisting on family dinners, but they get why it was such a big deal. Food just tastes better when you take the time to enjoy it.
12. Wearing a Watch
Who needs a watch when you have a phone? Apparently, plenty of Millennials do, even if they don’t always admit it. A good watch isn’t just practical—it’s stylish and gives off a put-together vibe. Checking the time on your wrist feels more natural than pulling out your phone and getting sidetracked by notifications.
It also comes in handy during social situations when glancing at your phone might seem rude. Plus, there’s something nostalgic about winding a watch or hearing the soft ticking sound. While smartwatches have their perks, a classic analog timepiece has a timeless appeal. Millennials may joke about watches being “Boomer tech,” but they still love a good one.
13. Taking Pictures with a Real Camera
Millennials grew up with disposable cameras and point-and-shoots before smartphones took over. And while phone cameras are convenient, they secretly love the experience of using a real camera. There’s something about carefully composing a shot, adjusting settings, and waiting to see the final image that makes photography feel more special. It’s a break from the instant gratification of phone pictures, where a dozen takes and filters make everything look the same.
Film photography, in particular, has made a comeback among Millennials who crave the excitement of developing pictures. Even digital cameras offer better quality and creative control than a phone ever could. There’s a reason Polaroids and vintage cameras are still popular—it’s fun to capture memories in a way that feels more deliberate. While they won’t give up their phones anytime soon, plenty of Millennials secretly wish real cameras would make a full-fledged comeback.